Having a Hawaiian friend can be a confusing yet rewarding journey.
Their names have too many vowels. They wear swim shorts when they go out, and
they make absurd amounts of rice every week. Despite these odd behaviors you love
having them as a friend, so here’s a blueprint on how to treat that special pal in your life and strengthen that bond.
1. Don’t call them foreigners
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They don't like it. Hawai'i is the 50th state! Just cause it's not attached to America doesn't mean it's not apart of the U.S.
2. Be open to trying SPAM
This luncheon meat is a staple of their diet and calling it “gross” or “dog food” is a vital blow to their psyche. It’s one of the most versatile meats on the market with 13 flavors and counting. Eating spam with your Hawaiian friend will surely elevate your friendship to new heights.
3. Say "Eddie Would Go" if they hesitate about doing something.
This popular phrase was inspired by iconic lifeguard and surfer Eddie Aikau whose courageous death at sea immortalized him. The saying urges one to take risks and conquer their fears.
4. Don't be alarmed when they refer to your parents as unko and auntie
In Hawaii everyone treats each other like family and referring to your elders as unko and auntie is a sign of love and respect.
5. Eat pineapple with them
It’s no secret that pineapples are a culinary powerhouse in Hawaii. So much so that their people have developed an incredible ability to bite right into them and spit out the skin. It's incredible to watch and they're a great source of vitamin C. Two birds!
6. Wear aloha shirts around them
You’ll remind them of home. Not their friends or family, but the plethora of tourists they see cruising Waikiki. It's an effective method to remedy some of their homesickness.
7. Ask them to do hula for you
They love performing on the spot and are willing entertainers regardless of time or place. Ask and you shall receive.
8. Know the tribes!
Keeping track of the tribe your friend belongs to will make it easier to keep up with them once they go back to their homeland. This identification system is more efficient since Hawaiian names can be long and often difficult to pronounce.
9. If they scream CHEEHOOO out of nowhere, get them water. And quick!
This intense battle cry signifies the end of something amazing or the beginning of a bloodbath. Either way they’ll need some refreshments to moisten their throat or boost morale.
10. Proudly flash the shaka in pictures with them
This common hand gesture can be seen in nearly every picture on their Facebook. It represents the aloha spirit and can be used to say "Hey howzit?", "Take it easy" or "Hang Loose." Partaking in this tradition shows your friendship is built for the long haul.
